Grant Nelson update: Prized transfer down to Alabama, Arkansas
By WVUA 23 Digital Reporter Peyton Davis
Upon the departure of two-year starting center Charles Bediako, who officially declared for the NBA Draft a couple of weeks ago, University of Alabama head men’s basketball coach Nate Oats has been left scrambling for replacements.
The program is shifting its focus to the transfer portal, and the No. 1 player left available is Grant Nelson from North Dakota State University.
The 6-foot 11-inch rising senior initially had a trio of visits planned this week, to Baylor on Monday, Alabama on Tuesday and Arkansas on Thursday, but he reportedly canceled his Baylor visit and is down to two teams with an announcement “coming soon.”
The 21-year-old power forward/center averaged 17.9 points, 9.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists in his junior season with the Bison, but is far from a traditional big man as shown in his highlight mixtapes.
That’s just from one game, so it is clear why Oats could be salivating at over starring Nelson in his wide open offense. It also makes sense why Nelson could be heavily considering Alabama. This marriage seems perfect, but it’s up to Oats and co. to seal the deal.
Nelson reportedly made his visit to Tuscaloosa earlier this week, and every indication suggests it well – with Nelson clicking follow on Oats and several Bama players on social media.
Of course, that doesn’t mean Nelson is ready to put on a crimson and white jersey, but it is a positive sign.
Oats has made a lot of noise over the past few seasons recruiting in and out of the portal, with three Top 15 classes in his four years at Alabama, according to 247sports.
The forward/center had his name in the NBA Draft pool and spent three weeks at the NBA Combine, but after middling results he withdrew to stick with college for another year. It is clear that he believes a move to a larger program could improve his outlook, and Alabama needs a player with his experience to round out its frontcourt. Odds are good we’ll find out next week.
